Engaged Astrology

Hi Everyone!

I hope this finds you well. Have you been checking out the Jupiter-Venus ballet currently occurring in the Western Evening sky? Here in SoCal it appears at dusk, around 8:15pm, and then quickly sets (by 9pm). So a bit hard to catch — but worth it! Here are some iPhone snapshots I took over the last couple of weeks…

Jupiter and Venus are the Dwi Gurus (Two Gurus) of Vedic Astrology. They have radically different philosophies — very simply, Jupiter’s is about non-physical attainments, like wisdom and faith; and Venus believes that the meaning of life can be derived through material things — though these are not entirely incompatible. I actually like to think of Venus and Jupiter as lovers. They are separated by 365 million miles, so definitely long distance lovers.

Whether this is true or not, it is a fact that Venus and Jupiter fight like cats and dogs a lot of the time. Luckily they are meeting in Gemini, where both are reasonably comfortable, and which, as the twins, supports different ideologies existing simultaneously. So there is a good amount of tolerance — an “agree-to-disagree” energy evoked now — or at least that’s the way it seems. The conjunction can also create a kind of delusion, as Jupiter’s expansion triggers Venus’ energy to create beauty and harmony, even if it isn’t based on reality. On Jupiter’s side, Venus’ influence can distract him and make his deepening, meaningful effects more superficial than they ordinarily would be. It’s a recipe for fantasy. Indeed, world affairs seem to be suspended in a kind of limbo right now — the sense that we don’t really know what’s going on.

My prayer for this conjunction is that the two gurus at least touch base about the troubled little blue-green planet that circles the sun between them. But perhaps they have bigger fish to fry.

Jupiter definitely does, as **TODAY**, June 1st, he actually edges out of Gemini and enters Sidereal Cancer. In the waters of Cancer he is bathed, blessed and refreshed… and becomes EXALTED. Venus exactly conjuncts with him, in Cancer on June 11th-12th. Keep an eye on these dates, they could be very charged. (Don’t get in fights!) I think it’s sweet that Venus checks in with Jupiter at the beginning of his Exaltation journey — a nice omen. Jupiter will be exalted, so her powers of distraction won’t have too much effect over him. Unsurprisingly she then speeds up and gets the heck out of Cancer as quickly as possible. Cancer is not Venus’ favorite place.

But it is Jupiter’s…

Eight months ago I wrote about the beginning of Jupiter’s “Dance with Exaltation” because the planet had dipped, very briefly, into Cancer. Then a few weeks later, it retrograded out. Now, after a very human gestation period, the transit begins in earnest. We should have a party because this transit, which lasts six months, should be of benefit to the entire planet. It is generally thought of as the luckiest possible transit. How it affects you personally of course depends on your chart, and I am writing some sign-by-sign indications below.

In the Vedic Astrology scriptures, a powerful Jupiter is referred to as “an elephant guarding the door”. Jupiter’s protective powers are not typically physical (though they can be). The tattva, or element, that Jupiter rules is ether — Akasha — so physically he can be hard to pin down. This, as always with Jupiter, is largely about spirit, and the protection he offers is of a more liminal nature. In terms of the senses, the first sign of Jupiter will show up via SOUND, which is ruled by the ether element. So we should all hear — and listen — a little better for the next six months. This alone could save our lives.

Sound is not the only thing that Jupiter amplifies — in fact he expands everything that he touches, especially in Cancer. So where Cancer lies in your chart, and what it contains, will make a big difference. If the transit happens in your 2nd or 11th house, for example, there will almost certainly be positive financial benefits. And even if Jupiter is expanding something negative in your chart, it will also offer ways to mitigate (protect against) this negativity — but it is up to us to take him up on these offers (listen carefully!).

Either way, the major remedy called for here is to propitiate, or even worship, Jupiter. This is easy because Jupiter — or Guru in Sanskrit — manifests through every major deity ever invented by humans. And if you don’t believe in any of those, then look for him in the most important teachers in your life, or the places where learning is activated inside you, and propitiate those. Indeed, if you were going to boil this transit down, learning would be one of the major themes.

There is a wonderful term used in Buddhism: Prapancha. The rough translation is “concept proliferation”. In modern psychology, I find the word “perseveration” aligns with the idea of obsessing, or becoming, literally “lost in thought”. This is a potential pitfall of this transit as Jupiter’s ethereal expansion can overwhelm our boundaries, and we can lose our way. The effects can sometimes be unrealistic, or even bombastic — and at worst, deluded. So setting intentions is important, and if we stay disciplined, specific, and realistic in what we want/need — and ask for it nicely — Jupiter is sure to oblige.

Indeed, digging deeper, the psychology involved with this transit is baked into its origins. Jupiter becomes exalted in Cancer, which is ruled by Moon. This means the “effects” of the exaltation are “carried” through Moon. So if we were going to read the effects of this transit in your personal chart we would look at 1) where Cancer is, 2) where Jupiter is, and 3) what’s going on with your moon. Moon is related to our minds, so again, how we mentally process the energies here is key.

The relationship between Jupiter and the Moon is complicated and to illustrate it, I am again (as I was 8 months ago) led to the story of Brihaspati (Jupiter) and Tara (his wife).

The legend goes that Jupiter’s wife, Tara, had an affair with the resplendent Moon, and even sired a child with him. This child is the planet Mercury (Buddha). Jupiter was, of course, angered by this. But then, being Jupiter, he took Mercury under his wing and raised him as though he were his own.

This story sheds light on all these planets: Jupiter’s nobility and compassion; Moon’s fickleness and impulsivity; and Mercury’s odd, somewhat conflicted identity (he loves his adopted father, Jupiter, but never fully forgives the Moon, his biological one!). What is important is that ultimately Jupiter does forgive the Moon, and that forgiveness or acceptance is a key factor as Jupiter transits Cancer. In fact it is WHY Jupiter is exalted here, because it brings out the best in him (and us). The true power of this transit is Jupiter’s compassion and his spiritual advancement — the understanding that if he were to hate on the Moon for cuckolding him, it would, ultimately, lead to more pain for his family… for the world… and for the Universe.

Moon responds to this forgiveness in the language Moon knows best — that of pure love. Although a male figure in this story, Moon also represents the mother, whose love is boundless as we know!

Anyway, in a real sense, this transit represents the passing of a moral test, a rising above; a return to wholeness and to faith; an expression of what Martin Luther King called “soul force”.

I am basing these on the three major Exalted Jupiter factors mentioned (and highlighted!) above: Expansion; Protection; and Spiritual Advancement.

With regard to the below, if you know your Vedic Ascendant, please focus on that sign.

If you don’t, focus on the sign where your Vedic Moon is. And if you don’t know that, then I am also including Vedic “sun signs” by date. These are not, strictly speaking, part of traditional Vedic Astro, but there will be some Jupitarian potentialities held for each, especially ones to do with creativity, growth and fame (solar things). Some of you have expressed that this is confusing! I would say, in general, whatever you consider to be your main “sign”, read for that.

Also, if you can’t remember your Vedic Ascendant, feel free to reach out to me and I will tell you — no problem!

Expansion: Jupiter is exalted in your 4th house which rules where we live, so this transit supports expanding or beautifying your home. The 4th house also relates to our moms, so, if she is around, your mom could need something or take on a larger role in your life — listen to her. But also, try not to let these things overwhelm you…

Protection: Don’t worry, your mom will be protected by this transit, as will any actions around real estate or home improvement. Relationships, particularly loving ones, should feel deeper and safer.

Soul Force: The 4th house is related to our hearts, and what we love. So spiritual advancement will come through these things — your heart could be challenged, as could the very nature of love, but the suggestion here is that you will “rise above” and find a more enlightened, loving path.

Expansion: This transit expands your creativity and your ability to break out of fixed patterns — anything you might feel trapped by. It’s also a great time for exercise or physical activities. These things should show up naturally for you, without much effort. Try not to overthink them.

Protection: Siblings, particularly younger ones, will be protected by this transit. If you have experienced tension or conflict with anyone in your life, this is a good time to reach a higher level of understanding.

Soul Force: What is it to be free? Your spiritual advancement revolves around a sense that you hold the keys, and can take responsibility for your own freedom. Or it could be a re-definition of what freedom actually means — perhaps you have more of it than you previously thought.

Expansion: This transit should expand your finances and/or income, but also be great for your close family and friends. You might be talking to them more than usual. Be careful of gossip and over-eating, especially sweets — don’t get greedy!

Protection: The second house protects YOU so there should be a feeling of safety and security during this time. However, this does not mean you should take undue risks. If there are any family relationships that need help, this is a great time to support or restore them.

Soul Force: What supports me? Spiritual advancement comes through the realization that, despite what you may have thought previously, you ARE supported, and you ARE loved. Don’t be surprised if you have some long, meaningful conversations during this time — you could learn a lot from them. This transit is about faith.

Expansion: This transit expands your “name and fame” and makes you more visible in the world. Try not to struggle or force these things though, they will come. It could feel overwhelming at times. This transit could also give you a “big head” (literally), so keep your ego in check, and watch for unwanted weight gain!

Protection: Health should be well protected by this transit, as is your relationship with your spouse or partner if you have one. Note that this does not mean you are immune to everything — and in terms of relationships, remember to listen!

Soul Force: Who am I? As Jupiter transits this central sign for you, the source of your spiritual advancement is your relationship with yourself. Situations could arise that give you the opportunity to learn, grow, or exercise more understanding. This transit should leave you better than you were before.

Expansion: Your expansion is pointed towards foreign lands and spirituality, which is exciting — adventure calls! — but also might call for a reality check. Similarly be careful with expenses, they could expand as well.

Protection: Jupiter, though it can cause “losses” in your 12th house, can also protect you from them. It will mainly do this through intelligence and consciousness … these are your “Elephants guarding the door”. In the real world this means shoring up your expenses and making strategic, future-based decisions about your life.

Soul Force: Respond or react? Jupiter always represents the “Wisdom Factor” and though there could be challenges, you have the opportunity to advance your powers of detachment. Again, spiritual practices like meditation, prayer, yoga, etc, should come easily and you don’t have to travel to far-off lands to do them!

Expansion: This is a great time to grow investments or start new ones – saving money in all forms is supported. Your social or networking circles could also expand without much effort.

Protection: Your mental health will be protected during this transit — you should feel grounded and navigate relationships with skill. The generosity and good will you put out will come back to you in spades, and protect you as well.

Soul Force: How much do I need? The 11th house is the house of “Gains”, and though Jupiter could give you these on a material level, ultimately it is wisdom and knowledge that he wishes to bestow upon you. Opening to these things as the true gains is the spiritual promise of this transit.

Expansion: Growth in one’s career will be supported, including finding a new job, upgrading an existing one, or finding a new direction in one’s career. You should feel motivated and inspired, though there could also be a lot of pressure and stress.

Protection: Your career, your work, is protected which is a blessing and, as we all know, not always the case. So take advantage of this great transit also to think ahead. Whatever moves you make during this time, even if they won’t pay off till sometime in the future, are extremely well supported.

Soul Force: Does my work define me? I mentioned the possible stress involved in this transit, and indeed, it could lead to overworking. Everything about this transit is about action, so that is normal, and the spiritual growth here becomes about balancing work and life. If you feel that work does define you, does the work you do also reflect your values?

Expansion: Jupiter in your 9th house expands your access to knowledge, whether that means education, spirituality, professional training, or something else altogether. This transit also expands your good luck, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should head straight to Vegas (or Polymarket).

Protection: This is a highly protective transit for you (Jupiter aspects Scorpio from Cancer) so you should feel relaxed, and, for the most part, safe. This, as we know, is not always the case, so use this wonderful transit to think about the future as well. Moves you make now will also be protected for. Also: don’t forget to be grateful!

Soul Force: What do I believe? The 9th house is the temple and you will enjoy spiritual environments and sounds during this time. Listen carefully. You will surely receive messages that will be meaningful to you.

Expansion: Change is good and your capacity to make changes expands in this transit. If there is anything old or obsolete in your life, this is a good time to figure out what that is, and remove it. There may also be changes that arise out of your control, which could be stressful. Know that they are necessary.

Protection: Exalted Jupiter in your 8th House protects the changes you make through intelligence and consciousness … these are your “Elephants guarding the door”. The danger in the 8th House is that you could blow these things off, even though they are available to you. Slow down and don’t rush important decisions. Research everything.

Soul Force: Am I connected? The 8th House can be tricky and surprising. Jupiter always represents the “Wisdom Factor” and though there could be challenges now, you have the opportunity to advance your powers of detachment and equanimity. This transit will lead you to your faith.

Expansion: Expansion around marriage or romantic partnerships will be well supported at this time, including meeting a new person, or formalizing or deepening an existing relationship. This could also include professional relationships by the way.

Protection: Exalted Jupiter here protects your image in the world, not only your relationships. A side effect here is that you could be overly concerned about what people might be thinking about you, but don’t blow this out of proportion. Your image will be doing well — you don’t have to force it.

Soul Force: What am I putting out there? Interestingly the spirituality of this transit is carried by how you treat and affect others. It’s not enough to have deep thoughts. They must be expressed through kindness, forgiveness, and compassion. I don’t know of a chart for Brihaspati, but I could imagine this being the placement that allowed him to forgive Tara (see story above!).

Expansion: Expansion around your healing journey is well supported. Whether it is physical or mental, this is a great time to find solutions or begin programs related to health. It would also be a great time to invite a new pet, employee, or friend into your life. Odd to put those three things together … but that’s Exalted Jupiter in the 6th house!

Protection: Jupiter protects health in this transit but that does not mean you can take it for granted. The fact that you are experiencing this transit likely means that there is something in your wellness journey that needs attending to.

Soul Force: The 6th house is also the house of “enemies”, so people or situations that are somehow against you may bubble up. The protection Jupiter offers also includes forgiving these people, and treating them with compassion. Note that Jupiter might not be good at setting boundaries, but it’s very good at metabolizing adversity into spiritual awakening.

Expansion: Expansion around any “future-oriented” activity will be supported. Whether it is children (especially children!), education, or investments, or long-term plans, this is an amazing time to honor your “future self” as well as to think about the future of your family more broadly. You should be able to have a lot of creative and clever ideas.

Protection: Your body is well protected by this transit (though don’t overeat!) and it also protects your career. There should be a lot to be grateful for during this transit, which also protects seeking advice or counsel.

Soul Force: Exalted Jupiter is transiting your 5th house, the Mantra Bhava. Jupiter here promises that mantras, prayers, spiritual podcasts — anything that connects with you via sound — will be extremely effective and potentially deep. This is a good time to give any of these things a try if they don’t manifest naturally for you already.

Thanks for reading!

To paraphrase the wonderful Vedic Astro Barbara Pijan, due to “fluctuations in the energy field”, I have been too busy to film another piece this month, but have one planned and will do so soon.

I hope this has been of use to you. If you wish, please consider supporting the work I do.

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May the Soul Force be with you!

Sending love,

Jesse